Choosing the right luxury vinyl flooring thickness for commercial spaces is more than just picking a number. It’s about performance, durability, and cost-efficiency. If you’re a contractor, developer, or distributor, you need a solution that holds up—whether in a busy retail store, office building, or restaurant.
Think about it: A thinner wear layer means faster damage from foot traffic and heavy furniture, leading to early replacements and higher costs. On the other hand, a thicker vinyl plank (5mm-8mm) with a wear layer of at least 20 mils provides better resistance against scratches, stains, and daily wear and tear.
This guide will walk you through what works best so you can confidently recommend or install commercial luxury vinyl flooring that lasts.
The Layers That Keep It Strong
Think of commercial luxury vinyl flooring like a well-built structure—its durability comes from multiple layers working together.
- Base Layer – This is the foundation. It gives stability and prevents shifting, making it a great fit for large spaces with heavy use.
- Design Layer – This is where style meets function. Luxury vinyl tiles and planks mimic natural stone, hardwood finishes, and even ceramic without the maintenance headaches.
- Wear Layer – The real game-changer. A thicker wear layer (20 mils or more) protects against scratches, stains, and heavy foot traffic, ensuring long-term performance in commercial settings.
Durability, low maintenance, and cost efficiency matter just as much as aesthetics when selecting the right vinyl flooring thickness. A thicker vinyl plank lasts longer, performs better, and keeps clients happy.
Significance of Wear Layer Thickness
The wear layer is your first line of defense when dealing with commercial luxury vinyl flooring. It’s the protective coating that guards against scratches, stains, and high-use areas, making it a crucial factor in flooring durability. The proper thickness ensures longer-lasting performance in high-traffic areas.
How Thick Should the Wear Layer Be?
20 mils (0.5 mm) for Moderate Traffic Areas
- If you install your vinyl sheet flooring in office spaces, boutiques, or hotel rooms, a 20-mil wear layer offers solid protection while maintaining comfort underfoot.
30 mils (0.7 mm) or More for High-Traffic Zones
- A thicker wear layer (30 mils or more) is essential for spaces like restaurants, retail stores, and medical facilities. It resists constant wear and tear, ensuring low maintenance and long-term durability.
A well-chosen wear layer extends the lifespan of luxury vinyl planks and sheets, reducing the need for frequent repairs and keeping commercial spaces looking professional and polished.
Total Plank Thickness Considerations
When selecting commercial luxury vinyl flooring, plank thickness plays a significant role in performance. It affects stability, durability, and underfoot comfort, which are crucial for high-traffic commercial spaces.
The ideal vinyl thickness for commercial use falls between 5mm and 8mm. This range provides enough strength to handle constant movement while maintaining comfort underfoot. Thinner vinyl flooring (below 5mm) may work for light-use areas, but a thicker plank offers better resilience and longevity in offices, retail stores, and hospitality spaces.
Additionally, wire-brushed finishes and natural materials enhance durability while preserving aesthetic appeal. Choosing the right vinyl flooring thickness ensures a low-maintenance, high-performing floor that withstands daily demands without compromising style.
Factors Influencing Thickness Selection
Whether you’re installing vinyl flooring in an office, hotel, or retail space, factors like subfloor condition, acoustics, and thermal comfort play a key role in your decision.
Subfloor Condition
The quality of the subfloor directly impacts flooring longevity. Thicker planks (5mm-8mm) help mask minor subfloor imperfections, creating a seamless, stable surface. However, proper subfloor preparation is still essential to prevent buckling or shifting over time.
Acoustic Properties
Managing noise is essential in multi-level commercial spaces. Thicker flooring reduces footstep sounds and background noise, making it a great option for offices, hotels, and apartment buildings. It creates a quieter, more comfortable atmosphere for occupants.
Thermal Comfort
A thicker luxury vinyl plank provides better insulation, helping regulate indoor temperatures. This improves energy efficiency, reducing heating and cooling costs—especially in large commercial spaces.
Taking these factors into account helps you choose commercial luxury vinyl flooring that offers lasting durability, efficiency, and performance.
Balancing Cost and Performance
Choosing the right commercial luxury vinyl flooring means finding the sweet spot between cost and durability. While thicker planks may have a higher upfront price, they often outlast thinner options, reducing long-term expenses.
Here’s how thickness affects costs:
- Material Costs – Thicker flooring (5mm-8mm) costs more initially but offers better durability for high-traffic commercial spaces.
- Installation Costs – Some wholesale flooring options require additional subfloor prep, impacting overall expenses.
- Maintenance & Replacement – A durable thickness means fewer replacements, lower repair costs, and reduced downtime.
For commercial flooring, investing in the right thickness leads to:
- Longer lifespan with minimal wear
- Lower maintenance and repair costs
- Better performance in demanding environments
Prioritizing quality over short-term savings ensures your investment pays off in the long run.
Work With a Trusted Wholesale Partner for Commercial Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Balancing durability, cost, and performance is key when selecting commercial luxury vinyl flooring. The proper thickness makes all the difference—thicker planks (5mm-8mm) with a strong wear layer provide superior resistance to wear and tear, making them ideal for high-traffic spaces like retail stores, office buildings, and hospitality venues.
Finding the best LVP flooring for your project requires expert insight. Get tailored recommendations from our team at Ellie Cabinetry and More. Contact us today for wholesale pricing and premium commercial vinyl flooring options. Whether installing new flooring or upgrading an existing space, we’ll help you choose a solution that delivers long-term durability, efficiency, and style.
Make the right investment—opt for high-performance flooring that meets daily demands while maintaining its professional appeal.